Authorities in the UAE have directed hotels to host stranded travellers at the government’s expense, after regional tensions disrupted flights and prevented many visitors from leaving as planned.
In a major relief amid rising tensions in the Middle East and widespread flight disruptions, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) has instructed hotels across the emirate to allow stranded travellers to extend their stays, with the government covering the additional costs. The directive follows mounting regional instability that has disrupted flight schedules and left many visitors unable to depart on time.
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In a circular dated February 28, 2026, addressed to hotel general managers, the department acknowledged that some travellers had reached their scheduled check-out dates but were unable to leave due to circumstances beyond their control. The move comes against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions that have impacted aviation networks and led to temporary travel curbs across parts of the Middle East.
DCT clarified that neither hotels nor guests would bear the financial burden of the extended stays. According to the notice, the cost of additional accommodation will be reimbursed directly by DCT Abu Dhabi, with hotels asked to submit invoices through an official channel designated by the department.
To ensure smooth implementation, the department also shared contact details for its business continuity support team, aimed at assisting hotels with operational coordination. The decision has been widely welcomed online, with many describing it as a proactive measure to reduce the impact of travel disruptions on both visitors and the local hospitality industry.
The directive is understood to fall under Law No. 8 of 2018, which established DCT Abu Dhabi and granted it authority to regulate and support the tourism sector during exceptional circumstances.
In a similar step, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has issued parallel guidance, asking hotels to allow affected guests to extend their stays under their original booking terms. Properties have also been asked to notify the department of extensions, including reservation details, revised stay durations, and any operational challenges encountered.
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